Halloween Treats Don’t Have to be Sweet

Break out of the usual candy routine this year and give a treat that’s still fun!

Halloween is no doubt a fun time for both kids and their parents. Who doesn’t enjoy dressing up in their favorite characters, getting a little crafty (if the costume calls for it), or running around the neighborhood begging for treats?

If you’re prepping your porch for the droves of trick-or-treaters coming your way, but you’re worried about the potential number of cavities and the bellyaches caused by the sheer volume of candy and sugar the little ones will consume this Halloween, consider some of these candy-free goodies.

And before you start fretting about being known as the “lame” house on the block, know that you don’t necessarily have to appeal to a sweet tooth to see a smile.

Quench Their ThirstAfter running around for an hour or two, the ghouls and goblins are bound to work up a thirst. Try water with flavor packets or 100% juice pouches to satisfy the sweetness craving without all of the negative consequences of eating too much candy. With a creative display where the spooks can build their own beverage, your house is bound to be a favorite.

Toys: A Welcome DistractionGlow sticks and flashy toys are always fun to wave around in the dark, and they increase the visibility of children in the neighborhood as an added bonus!

Go Musical. On the subject of safety, items that make noise can also ensure kids won’t get lost on the neighborhood streets. Consider whistles and other musical noisemakers as a giveaway gift. Let’s face it, kids love making themselves heard. So give them a night to do just that!

Classic Cars. Toy cars are good play-anywhere toys. Maybe you’ll end up contributing a rare one to a child’s beloved collection if you get lucky.

Get Bulk. Some classic toys like plastic army men and bouncy ballscan be purchased in bulk quantities from a dollar store or for cheap from vending machines. They’re inexpensive, fun and again, contain no cavity-causing sugar.

Wear Them Out!Fake plastic jewelry, including spider rings, Mardi Gras beads and even plastic vampire fangs can make fun wearables for children. Let them choose what will work with their already awesome Halloween costumes!

Temporary tattoos are always big hits, and cartoon-decorated bandages are fun to take home and use in the future. Try having some non-toxic, mini nail polish bottles on hand in case any tiny princesses visit.

Craft SuppliesChildren love making things, right? Let’s encourage their creativity by handing out small packets of activities they can use to be crafty.

Build packets of craft staples like moldable clay, crayons, stickers and colored pencils to hand out to your visitors. This treat will keep the party going for days after Halloween.

Whatever you decide to pass out on Halloween night, keep the focus on fun and safety – and get a little more creative with your offerings this year.